FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Island SPACE Caribbean Museum marked its significant five-year milestone with the spectacular FIYAH! Gala on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The sold-out event, themed “Milestones: FIYAH! Fashion. Folklore. Future.,” drew nearly 300 guests, uniting business leaders, cultural icons, and community supporters to celebrate the museum’s journey and propel its vision forward.
A Night of Cultural Spectacle and Entertainment
The FIYAH! Gala was a vibrant testament to the rich tapestry of Caribbean heritage, blending theatrical spectacle, high fashion, and gala elegance. Hosted by the dynamic duo Neki Mohan and Keith “Papa Keith” Walcott, the evening commenced with a dazzling red carpet experience, setting a tone of glamour and anticipation. Guests were treated to a lively cocktail hour featuring the melodic sounds of the Melo Groove Steel Orchestra, accompanied by costumed performers embodying mythical Caribbean figures like the MidRobber and La Sirène.
The program showcased an impressive lineup of artistic talent that illuminated the spirit of the Caribbean. The Delou Africa Dance Ensemble delivered a powerful performance of drumming and dance, while Tanya Marie the Designer presented an avant-garde fashion collection that brought Caribbean mythology to life on the runway. Vocalist LaVie captivated the audience with soulful performances in English, Creole, Portuguese, and Patois, enhancing the dining experience. A unique “Clash of Cultures” spoken word segment featured poets Inez Barlatier, Mori Taiye, and Frank!e Red Wordz, fusing rhythm, language, and purpose from Dominican, Jamaican, and Haitian perspectives. The night concluded with an energetic afterparty set by DJ GQ, keeping the dance floor alive with island classics.
Honoring Trailblazers with the ICON Awards
In recognition of outstanding contributions to the community, the gala also presented the inaugural Island SPACE ICON Awards. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon four distinguished leaders: Broward County Commissioner Hazelle P. Rogers, Braulio N. Rosa (Executive Director of the Broward Bar Association), Gepsie M. Metellus (Founder and Executive Director of Sant La), and Lesly Simon (Community Engagement Director for South Dade Kia of Miami). Their legacies embody the brilliance and cultural pride of the Caribbean diaspora, inspiring attendees with moving tribute videos and heartfelt acceptance speeches.
Launching a $1 Million Mission for Future Growth
Beyond the celebration, the FIYAH! Gala served as the official launch for Island SPACE’s ambitious $1 million fundraising campaign. This vital initiative aims to sustain the museum’s ongoing operations, expand its dedicated staff capacity, and lay the groundwork for a new, state-of-the-art museum space by 2027. “Public arts dollars are shrinking just as our impact grows,” stated David I. Muir, the museum’s co-founder, emphasizing the critical need for community support to ensure the museum’s enduring legacy. Executive Director Calibe Thompson highlighted the museum’s journey from a humble pop-up to a recognized, permanent institution, underscoring its unique role in preserving the shared heritage of diverse Caribbean communities. Keynote speaker Marlon Hill, Esq., a respected attorney and Caribbean cultural advocate, delivered a powerful address on the importance of community-driven institutions and fostering resilience, rallying attendees with the unifying cry, “When I say FIYAH, you say More FIYAH!”.
The Island SPACE Caribbean Museum: A Pillar of Heritage
Founded on September 26, 2019, Island SPACE Caribbean Museum has rapidly established itself as the world’s first and only brick-and-mortar heritage museum dedicated to representing every Caribbean country and culture. Its mission is to illuminate, celebrate, and preserve the Caribbean spirit, serving as a vital hub for cultural preservation, artistic expression, and education within the diaspora. The museum, which officially opened its doors in November 2020, showcases a vast collection of artifacts, art, and historical data that tell the story of the Caribbean people and their profound impact on the American landscape. Over five years, it has welcomed over 20,000 visitors, established signature annual events, and become home to South Florida’s only permanent Bob Marley exhibit, demonstrating its growing influence and importance.
The success of the FIYAH! Gala, made possible by sponsors such as the Broward County Cultural Division, Barbados, Island TV, Accordia Shipping, the Broward Bar Association, and the Jamaica Tourist Board, signifies a strong foundation for Island SPACE’s future endeavors. The event not only celebrated a significant anniversary but also underscored the museum’s commitment to cultural unity, representation, and legacy building for generations to come, solidifying its role as a cultural cornerstone in South Florida.